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Telesat (TSAT) Moves 7.5% Higher: Will This Strength Last?
ZACKS· 2025-10-06 08:31
Company Overview - Telesat (TSAT) shares increased by 7.5% to close at $29.85, with a notable 27.7% gain over the past four weeks, driven by strong trading volume and interest in satellite and communication stocks due to rising demand for global connectivity [1] - The company is performing well in both its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellite businesses, with significant momentum in the LEO segment, particularly through the Telesat Lightspeed program [2] Business Development - Telesat's commercial pipeline is robust, with a committed backlog for the Lightspeed program exceeding C$1 billion at the end of Q2 [2] - The company is making advancements in satellite development, ground infrastructure, and network software, including a partnership with Calian to develop the operational data platform for the Lightspeed LEO network [3] Financial Guidance - Telesat has reiterated its 2025 guidance, expecting revenues between C$405 million and C$425 million, with adjusted EBITDA projected between C$170 million and C$190 million [4] - Total capital expenditures are anticipated to be between C$900 million and C$1.1 billion, primarily related to the Lightspeed initiative [4] Earnings Expectations - The company is expected to report a quarterly loss of $0.94 per share, reflecting a year-over-year change of -1075%, with revenues projected at $69.96 million, down 31.1% from the previous year [5] - The consensus EPS estimate for Telesat has remained unchanged over the last 30 days, indicating that stock price movements may not sustain without trends in earnings estimate revisions [6] Industry Context - Telesat is part of the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry, where another company, EchoStar (SATS), experienced a 2.4% decline in its stock price, with a 17.5% return over the past month [6] - EchoStar's consensus EPS estimate has changed by +3.1% over the past month, reflecting a year-over-year change of -136.5% [7]
Iridium Partners With Karrier One to Expand Global IoT Connectivity
ZACKS· 2025-10-03 15:26
Core Insights - Iridium Communications Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Karrier One to integrate Iridium's NTN Direct IoT capabilities into Karrier One's ecosystem, enhancing global connectivity opportunities [1][11] - The collaboration aims to redefine connectivity beyond geographical limitations, with a bilateral agreement for technical integration and commercial rollout expected to follow [2] Collaboration Benefits - The partnership allows Karrier One deployers to connect sensors and devices globally, even in areas lacking terrestrial mobile networks, without needing local base stations [3] - Utilizing Iridium's low-Earth orbit satellite constellation, the collaboration provides reliable pole-to-pole coverage, facilitating immediate global connectivity for IoT solutions [4] - Key advantages include global reach for narrowband IoT devices, no infrastructure deployment, resilient M2M communications for critical industries, and seamless access to Iridium connectivity through Karrier One's platform [5] Recent Partnerships and Developments - Iridium has recently partnered with Deutsche Telekom to enhance global connectivity through its upcoming NTN Direct service, positioning both companies at the forefront of 5G-powered NTN [6] - In May 2025, Iridium collaborated with Syniverse to enable the global deployment of its NTN Direct service, aiming for direct-to-device and narrowband IoT connectivity integrated with terrestrial networks [7] Financial Outlook - Iridium is investing in R&D to enhance its technology infrastructure, with expectations to generate approximately $1 billion in annual service revenues by 2030 [8] - However, the company has revised its 2025 service revenue growth forecast down to 3-5% from an earlier estimate of 5-7%, citing various challenges including maritime broadband transition and revenue delays [9] Stock Performance - Iridium currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), with its shares declining by 37.8% over the past year, contrasting with a 164.2% increase in the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry [10]
Gilat Satellite (GILT) is a Great Momentum Stock: Should You Buy?
ZACKS· 2025-10-02 17:01
Core Viewpoint - Momentum investing focuses on following a stock's recent price trends, aiming to buy high and sell higher, with the expectation that established trends will continue [1] Company Overview: Gilat Satellite (GILT) - Gilat Satellite currently holds a Momentum Style Score of B, indicating a favorable momentum characteristic [2] - The company has a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), suggesting strong potential for outperformance in the market [3] Performance Metrics - Over the past week, GILT shares increased by 0.95%, matching the performance of the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry [5] - In a longer timeframe, GILT's monthly price change is 46.88%, significantly outperforming the industry's 24.39% [5] - GILT shares have surged by 81.36% over the past quarter and 169.57% over the last year, while the S&P 500 has only increased by 8.57% and 18.94%, respectively [6] Trading Volume - The average 20-day trading volume for GILT is 1,083,731 shares, which serves as a bullish indicator when combined with rising stock prices [7] Earnings Outlook - In the past two months, one earnings estimate for GILT has increased, raising the consensus estimate from $0.33 to $0.59 [9] - For the next fiscal year, one estimate has also moved upwards, with no downward revisions during the same period [9] Conclusion - Given the strong performance metrics and positive earnings outlook, GILT is positioned as a 1 (Strong Buy) stock with a Momentum Score of B, making it a compelling investment option [11]
Globalstar Bets on XCOM RAN: Could This Be the Next Big Growth Driver?
ZACKS· 2025-09-29 13:05
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. is strategically investing in XCOM's Radio Access Network (RAN) technology to enhance its growth potential, with the XCOM RAN expected to deliver at least 4 times higher capacity than standard 5G NR systems [1][9]. Company Developments - In December 2024, Globalstar successfully conducted its first 5G data call using XCOM RAN over the n53 spectrum, achieving downlink speeds of 100 Mbps and uplink speeds of 60 Mbps, demonstrating the technology's capability for mission-critical applications [2]. - The company is advancing its software-defined, end-to-end XCOM RAN solution, which offers lower latency, greater spectral efficiency, and dynamic spectrum sharing, potentially broadening its addressable market [3]. - Globalstar invested significantly in the development of XCOM RAN in Q2, which increased cash costs and pressured adjusted EBITDA by approximately $1.9 million, resulting in a 300 basis point reduction in adjusted EBITDA margin compared to the previous year [4]. - For 2025, Globalstar anticipates revenues between $260 million and $285 million, with adjusted EBITDA margins around 50% [5]. Industry Context - The satellite and communications sector is experiencing intense competition due to rapid technological advancements and new entrants, with companies like Iridium Communications and Gilat Satellite Networks expanding their addressable markets [6]. - Iridium is focusing on building a next-generation network in the 2030s to provide 5G/6G services directly to consumer devices, while also enhancing its role in global positioning and navigation [7]. - Gilat is well-positioned to benefit from rising global demand for defense SATCOM, with significant contracts secured from the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Army [10]. Financial Performance - Globalstar's stock has increased by 83.9% over the past year, compared to the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry's growth of 129.5% [12]. - The company's shares are trading at a forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 14.32X, significantly higher than the industry's 1.37X [13]. - Earnings estimates for Globalstar have been revised upward, with a 77.1% increase for 2025 earnings to a projected loss of 8 cents per share [14].
Globalstar Reiterates 2025 Outlook: Understated or Playing Safe?
ZACKS· 2025-09-24 12:51
Group 1: Company Overview - Globalstar (GSAT) reiterated its 2025 revenue outlook of $260-$285 million and expects adjusted EBITDA margins around 50% [1] - In Q2, revenues were $67.1 million, up 11% year over year, while adjusted EBITDA increased to $35.8 million from $32.6 million [1] - The company is witnessing growth in commercial IoT, with an increase in the average number of subscribers driven by robust growth in gross activations [1] Group 2: Growth Catalysts - GSAT is advancing new platforms like the RM200 two-way module and XCOM RAN, which could further drive revenue [2] - The RM200M module is gaining traction across various sectors, including oil & gas and defense, tested by over 50 partners [2] - XCOM RAN aims to enter terrestrial wireless markets, broadening the total addressable market and enabling next-gen hybrid satellite-terrestrial network architectures [3] Group 3: Infrastructure and Investment - GSAT is investing in infrastructure upgrades, launching a global ground infrastructure program for the next-generation Extended MSS Network, adding about 90 antennas across 35 ground stations in 25 countries [4] - The HIBLEO-XL-1 filing indicates a move towards next-generation MSS capabilities, expanding satellite capacity and frequency spectrum [5] Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The satellite and communication industry is highly competitive, with rapid technological advancements and new entrants potentially impacting GSAT's revenue trajectory [6] - Competitors like Iridium Communications and Gilat Satellite Networks are expanding their addressable markets amid increasing demand for global connectivity [6] Group 5: Financial Performance and Valuation - GSAT's shares have gained 36.9% in the past month, while the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry grew by 80.1% [12] - GSAT stock is trading at a forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 15.35X, significantly higher than the industry's 1.37X [13] - The consensus mark for 2025 earnings has been revised up 77.1% to a loss of 8 cents per share over the past 60 days [14]
GSAT Expands Estonia Ground Station to Boost C-3 Satellite Network
ZACKS· 2025-09-23 16:26
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. (GSAT) has initiated construction to expand its ground station in Estonia, doubling its size to enhance its mobile satellite system and service offerings across Europe [1][11] Expansion Details - The expansion project, supported by the Estonian Investment Agency and the U.S. Commercial Service, builds on Globalstar's previous investment in Saarde, where the site was commissioned in 2021 with three 6-meter tracking antennas [2] - The new expansion will add three additional antennas and related infrastructure, representing an incremental investment of approximately $9 million, with AS Connecto Infra handling the construction [3] Strategic Importance - The Estonian expansion is part of a broader initiative to deploy up to 90 new tracking antennas under Globalstar's third-generation C-3 satellite system, aimed at future-proofing the network for advanced satellite services [4] - The Estonian site, along with facilities in Greece, Spain, and France, is crucial for providing emergency SOS services and connectivity in areas lacking terrestrial mobile coverage [5] Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, Globalstar achieved revenues of $67.1 million, reflecting an 11% year-over-year increase, driven by growth in wholesale capacity services and Commercial IoT [8] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 financial outlook, projecting total revenues between $260 million and $285 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of around 50% [9] Market Position - Globalstar currently holds a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), with its shares having increased by 107.7% over the past year, compared to the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry's growth of 130.3% [10]
Iridium & Deutsche Telekom Join Forces to Expand Global IoT Connectivity
ZACKS· 2025-09-17 14:41
Core Insights - Iridium Communications has partnered with Deutsche Telekom to provide global connectivity through the upcoming NTN Direct service, positioning both companies at the forefront of 5G-powered non-terrestrial networks for IoT applications [1][10] - The integration of Iridium's NTN Direct service into Deutsche Telekom's existing IoT infrastructure aims to enhance global coverage and connectivity for various industries [2][3] Group 1: Service and Technology Integration - The NTN Direct service will leverage Iridium's LEO satellite network to expand Deutsche Telekom's NB-IoT coverage, ensuring reliable connectivity for sensors, machines, and vehicles [3][4] - The service is set to launch commercially in 2026, enabling IoT roaming for applications such as messaging, tracking, and device status updates across multiple sectors [5][10] Group 2: Growth Strategy and Financial Goals - Iridium aims to achieve $1 billion in annual service revenues by 2030 through significant R&D investments and technology upgrades, including the development of 3GPP 5G standards-based services [6][10] - The company is focusing on expanding its service offerings, including Satellite Time and Location (STL) and Direct-to-Device (D2D) communications, to enhance its market position [6][7] Group 3: Market Challenges - Iridium faces challenges in a competitive market, including licensing delays, rising tariffs, and funding cuts, which have led to a revised service revenue forecast of 3-5% for 2025 [8] - The company's debt-to-capital ratio has increased to nearly 79%, significantly higher than the industry average of 57%, indicating heightened financial risk [8]
Globalstar Surges 37% in Three Months: Is the Stock Still a Buy?
ZACKS· 2025-09-12 16:01
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. (GSAT) stock has increased by 37.3% over the past three months, but this is significantly lower than the Satellite and Communication Industry's growth of 141.8% [1][8] - The company reported second-quarter revenues of $67.1 million, an 11% year-over-year increase, driven by growth in wholesale capacity services and commercial IoT [5][8] - Globalstar is advancing innovative platforms like the RM200 two-way module and XCOM RAN, which are expected to enhance revenue streams [6][7] Price Performance - GSAT's stock closed at $30.29, down 2.7%, and is below its 52-week high of $41.10, raising questions about the sustainability of its momentum [4] - The stock is trading at a forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 12.78X, significantly higher than the industry average of 1.37X [16] Revenue Growth - The increase in second-quarter revenues was largely attributed to a 10% rise in service revenues, with wholesale capacity services being a key contributor [5][8] - Globalstar's revenue outlook for 2025 is projected to be between $260 million and $285 million, with expected adjusted EBITDA margins around 50% [15] Strategic Developments - The company is undergoing a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade, including the addition of approximately 90 antennas across 35 ground stations in 25 countries [9] - Globalstar signed a launch services agreement with SpaceX to deploy nine new satellites, scheduled for launch in late 2025 and 2026 [11] Client Expansion - GSAT is expanding its client base, particularly in the government sector, including partnerships with U.S. federal agencies and defense markets [12] - The company has completed a proof of concept with Parsons, moving into the commercial phase of collaboration [13] Competitive Landscape - Globalstar's proprietary spectrum is highlighted as a key competitive advantage in the satellite communications space [14] - The company faces competition from EchoStar, Iridium Communications, and Gilat Satellite Networks, with EchoStar recently selling spectrum licenses for approximately $17 billion [14] Valuation and Estimates - Analysts have raised earnings estimates for GSAT significantly, reflecting confidence in the company's long-term growth potential [18] - In comparison to peers, GSAT's stock has shown a notable performance, with Iridium declining by 35.8% while GILT and SATS have seen increases of 37.3% and 357.5%, respectively [19]
GSAT Expands Singapore Ground Station for Next-Gen C-3 Satcom System
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 16:26
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. has commenced construction to expand its Singapore ground station, adding two 6-meter tracking antennas to support its third-generation C-3 mobile satellite system [1][11] - This expansion strengthens Globalstar's presence in Southeast Asia and aligns with its global efforts to enhance satellite coverage and network capacity [2] - The Singapore project is part of a broader C-3 expansion plan that includes approximately 90 new tracking antennas worldwide, aiming to meet the growing demand for mobile satellite communications [3] Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, Globalstar achieved revenues of $67.1 million, reflecting an 11% year-over-year increase, driven by growth in wholesale capacity services and Commercial IoT [4] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 financial outlook, projecting total revenues between $260 million and $285 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of around 50% [7] Strategic Partnerships and Agreements - Globalstar signed a launch services agreement with SpaceX for its second set of replacement satellites and received FCC Space Bureau acceptance for its C-3 petition [4] - The company entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army to test its edge-processing satellite solutions for defense applications [5] - In July, Globalstar announced agreements with Telecom Castilla-La Mancha, S.A. to expand its Alcazar Teleport facility in Spain, enhancing its capabilities in Europe [6] Stock Performance - Globalstar currently holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), with its shares gaining 53.4% over the past year, compared to the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry's growth of 67.5% [8]
Gilat Defense Lands Multimillion-Dollar Israeli SATCOM Contract
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 15:56
Core Insights - Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (GILT) has secured a multimillion-dollar contract from Israel's Ministry of Defense for the delivery and integration of advanced satellite communication (SATCOM) systems, with completion expected by the end of 2025 [1][10]. Group 1: Contract and Deliverables - The contract entails the rapid deployment of advanced SATCOM systems tailored to the operational needs of Israel's defense forces, designed to operate in challenging conditions [2]. - The company expressed pride in delivering a customized solution for the Israeli Ministry of Defense, highlighting its capability to meet complex operational requirements with speed and precision [3]. Group 2: Market Position and Demand - Gilat is positioned to capitalize on the rising global demand for defense SATCOM, driven by geopolitical tensions and the growth of Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbits (NGSO) [4]. - The Defense unit is experiencing growth due to increased global investment in secure communication technologies, with nations expanding their communication infrastructure for security and operational agility [5]. Group 3: Financial Performance - In Q2 2025, Gilat's revenues reached $105 million, a 37% increase year-over-year, with commercial revenues rising by 59.1% due to the Stellar Blu acquisition [9]. - The company has raised its 2025 revenue outlook to between $435 million and $455 million, up from a previous forecast of $415 million to $455 million, with adjusted EBITDA projected between $50 million and $53 million [10][11]. Group 4: Strategic Initiatives - Gilat Defense is enhancing its sales initiatives to raise awareness of its technological expertise and its role in supporting satellite connectivity for U.S. and allied defense agencies [8]. - The company secured orders exceeding $8 million from the Israeli Ministry of Defense and an initial order of over $7 million from the U.S. Army, with a potential total value of approximately $70 million [7].